Summer makes us think about desserts that take on a new personality with at least some outdoor cooking. Grilling wedges of citrus-infused bundt cake, accompanied by slices of grilled nectarines, is one of my favorite ways to salute the season.

I prepare a simple Bundt cake that has the slight crunch of cornmeal and the bright flavors of lemon juice, and lemon and orange peel. Its moist, tender texture comes from buttermilk; it's a good ''keeping'' cake that seems to improve after it stands for a day.

Grilling slices of the cake adds two pleasant characteristics: a subtle smoky, toasted flavor and a sophisticated appearance. If the rest of your meal will be grilled, reserve an area of the barbecue that will not be used for meat or savory foods (or clean the grill well before the cake goes on) to avoid any unwanted flavors.

A dollop of vanilla ice cream, whipped mascarpone or whipped cream or a spoonful of buttermilk makes a luscious finale. Top servings with a chiffonade of basil leaves, sprigs of lavender or colorful hibiscus blossoms.

Summertime is truly when the living, and baking, is easy.

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